Kinew Open to West-East Pipeline Proposal

Manitoba Premier Wab Kinew has expressed willingness to consider a proposed west-east pipeline project, which would stretch over 3,300 kilometres from Hardisty, Alberta, to refineries in Sarnia, Ontario. The pipeline was announced by Alberta and Ontario premiers Danielle Smith and Doug Ford earlier this month. It aims to move 500,000 barrels of crude per day and reduce Canada's reliance on imported refined oil.

Kinew stated that he loves Albertans and is open to entertaining the idea of the pipeline, but emphasized that any project must be built with proper planning, including Indigenous consultation and environmental considerations. He insisted that his comment does not represent a change in position for him or his government.

Ontario Premier Doug Ford has said that the government could foot the bill for the project, which is currently undergoing a feasibility study. The estimated cost and timeline are expected to be shared by the end of the year. Kinew also mentioned that an offshoot connecting to the Port of Churchill in northern Manitoba is a possibility.